[The Epistle of Philemon] Rewards of Faith and Loveনমুনা

Fellowship

In our daily lives, we share good times and bad ones with other people. The good times are easy to maintain and nurture, allowing relationships to flourish. However, when disagreements arise, regardless of the cause, relationships can become strained. Interactions grow shorter, tempers flare, and the inclination to avoid or ignore one another may take hold. How can we, as followers of Jesus, navigate these daily challenges?

In the Bible, the term “fellowship” represents a distinctive bond among believers in Christ. This term is derived from the Greek word “koinonia.” Paul experiences this koinonia fellowship with Philemon. They are partners in common interests, shared work, and mutual emotions. They both contribute to the labor of the gospel. Furthermore, they share a common faith in Christ, having placed their trust in Him for salvation.

Paul implores Philemon to reconcile with Onesimus, basing this plea on their partnership and koinonia fellowship.

Human nature tends to drive us headlong into pride and conflict. To achieve reconciliation, we require God’s power. When we reconcile with others, we must act in faith and love. Through reconciliation, our character is transformed into the image of God, and our fellowship is restored. Christ’s sacrifice fulfilled this purpose. He reconciled us with God. We, too, must reconcile with others to restore fellowship and address one another as sisters and brothers without discord.

The act of forgiving one another and the subsequent reconciliation bring practical as well as spiritual benefits. If Philemon would reconcile with Onesimus, both would reap these rewards, just as Paul and the rest of the church would receive blessings from the Lord. While restored relationships offer many practical advantages, Paul’s primary focus was on the spiritual dimension.

A mature Christian is expected to respond by obeying God’s Word, acting in voluntary and spontaneous righteousness, mirroring the actions of Christ. This mature response to obedience forms the foundation of genuine fellowship among believers, which is a practical demonstration of their true love for one another.

Lord, I extend forgiveness to anyone who has hurt me, regardless of the reason or circumstance. Let us establish a common ground for mature love by adhering to Your will and reconciling with each other.